How to stay safe and out of trouble in Costa Rica?

• Costa Rica is quite safe compared to neighboring countries, but (violent) robberies and assaults do occur.

What to look out for regarding crime in Costa Rica?

• Pay close attention to your belongings. Carry your bag on the front of your body. Do not enter San José alone at night. To prevent your passport from being stolen, it is best to leave it in a (travel) safe in your hotel.
• Violent robberies are on the rise in Costa Rica, and especially in tourist spots and near the airport. Don't resist and just give away your belongings, your life is worth more. Be alert if you have rented a car and your tire goes flat; criminals may have done it on purpose and then pretend to be helpful road users. 

What to look out for regarding drugs in Costa Rica?

• Use and possession of (soft) drugs is prohibited.

What to look out for regarding natural disasters in Costa Rica?

• Hurricane season is from June through October. Hard rains also cause mudslides, which you don't want to be in the middle of. Furthermore, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur in Costa Rica. So pay close attention to the news.